I have a few extreme rods that I use and they work okay especially for the price.

My shimano sojourn rods are pretty good, and at a meer 25 bucks a piece, have both exceeded my needs.  I have 2 6'6 rod, one spinning, the other casting.  I love the way they feel, especially when you have a fish on!  They are tough!  Broke the tip on my spinning and just popped on another, it's now a 6'4-1/4", but still just as sensitive, as before.  Great rods, on the cheap!  

I agree the BPS Crankin Sticks are nice rods. You can find them on sale during the year for under $30. I own a handful for full time use and as back ups.  

Another vote for the BPS Crankin' rod.

My second place vote goes to the 7', M powered BPS Extreme XPS spinning rod.  I have this teamed with a Stradic 2500, and use it for casting jerks, cranks, and minnow baits to walleye (Ripsticks, Deep Little Rippers, Ripshads, Rogues, X-Raps, Grappler Shads, etc.).

I have a couple St. Croix Avid spinning rods that I picked up for $65 each.  I have to find any rod in that price range that can compare to them.  I can get that lucky again someday.

Yes, both Shakespear and Ugly Stick.

Both are a lot of fun and I catch a lot of fish using them on ponds and when just fishing to have fun.

my favorite cheap rod is the ugly stick.. hands down.

second is the all star instinct.

SS

i just got a lighting rod, and i have to say i dont think it is as good as a i hear. i really dont like the guides, and it makes a funny noise when casting. i know these are a real big deal but i didnt really like it. im still looking for a rod around 40 bucks.